Moscow
A planned party and rally in support of gay rights was called off this week, after protesters shouted homophobic slogans and hurled eggs and bottles at workers preparing for the event. The protesters included neo-Nazi skinheads, ardent nationalists, and elderly Russian Orthodox women carrying crosses. A leader of the anti-gay demonstration called it a “peaceful protest against sin,” but police said it turned rowdy when gays began showing up for their rally. Demonstrators chanted “Down with pederasts,” and as projectiles flew, police had to escort some gays to safety. Rally organizers put out the word that others should stay home. Moscow officials said a major gay pride parade planned for later this month would also be canceled because of the disorder it might provoke.
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